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Despite lack of scientific data on serious health hazards, some people fear that Video Display Terminals (VDTs) may cause cancer, immune system irregularities, or miscarriages.
The most common complaints from constant VDT users are dry or burning eyes, eye fatigue, blurred vision, and aches in the neck and back.
A few simple steps can alleviate these discomforts:
1. Use good room lighting. Adjust the room lighting levels and
properly position the computer to get the room lighting that is
most comfortable. The typical office lighting may be too bright
for computer work.
2. Eliminate sources of glare. Use drapes and blinds on windows. Don't sit facing a bright window. If necessary, use screen hoods or glare shields over the screen. Lower light levels in the room may reduce glare.
3. Adjust the screen brightness and contrast so that it is comfortable for you.
4. Rest occasionally during periods of intense concentration. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health recommends taking a 15-minute rest break every hour from highly demanding computer tasks. Don't forget to blink frequently to reduce dryness and irritation. Looking at a distant object can relax your eyes. Closing your eyes can also help.
5. Maintain a good viewing distance. Close viewing may cause focusing fatigue. Adjust the workstation so that keyboard, screen, and paper copy are an equal distance from the eyes with the screen slightly (about 20 degrees) below eye level. It is helpful to use a copyholder. A good viewing distance is 22 inches to 26 inches.
6. Talk to an eye-care professional about special glasses or an
altered prescription. Some people may need special glasses for
focusing at the intermediate distance that is neither as long a
distance as prescriptions for nearsightedness usually encompass,
nor a typical reading distance.
This is particularly true if you wear reading glasses or
bifocals. Tell your eye-care professional if you use a computer
for long periods, and discuss any eye discomfort you have.
7. Keep the work environment free of dust. Dust can make the eyes tear, feel gritty, or turn red. Proper humidity and ventilation are important. There are cleaners available to remove dust from the screen.